In December 2018, ECHA (the European Chemicals Agency) published the conclusion for the substance evaluation on 4,4’ methylenediphenyl diisocyanate (MDI) by Estonia, the evaluating Member State.
Under the CoRAP (Community Rolling Action Plan), Estonia evaluated the substance in order to clarify potential concerns surrounding the substance, with a particular focus on the potential risks as a respiratory and skin sensitiser, potential carcinogen, mutagen and toxic for reproduction and suspected PBT substance properties, as well as concerns surrounding wide dispersive use, including consumer use, and high aggregated tonnage. The evaluation of the available information on the substance has led the evaluating Member State Competent Authority (eMSCA) to the conclusion that there is no need for regulatory follow-up action at EU level.
This is excellent news for both the isocyanate and polyurethanes industries. Our success can be attributed to the outstanding efforts of the MDI consortium, led by Huntsman, a member company of ISOPA. MDI’s contribution via the production of energy efficient, lightweight, durable and comfortable products to help the EU reach its sustainability goals cannot be overstated.